Deborah McCullough

Deborah McCullough is a Professor of Forest Entomology at Michigan State University (MSU), holding dual appointments in the Department of Entomology and the Department of Forestry within the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources. Her work focuses on forest insect ecology, particularly invasive species like the emerald ash borer (EAB), beech bark disease, and hemlock woolly adelgid. She splits her time between teaching (20%), research (30%), and extension services (50%).

Her research integrates ecological studies with practical management strategies. Notable projects include EAB impact assessments, beech bark disease progression, and chestnut production pest management. She co-leads the national EAB.info website and collaborates with agencies like USDA Forest Service and Michigan Department of Agriculture.

McCullough’s teaching emphasizes arboriculture and urban forestry, covering pest identification, integrated pest management (IPM), and climate change impacts. She uses real-world case studies to engage students in ecological and socio-economic dimensions of forest pest management.

Her extension work bridges research and practical applications, advising resource managers and policymakers on invasive species control. Key achievements include influencing EAB policies in the US, Canada, and Europe, and developing management strategies for ash tree preservation. She also contributes to statewide surveys for non-native woodborers and collaborates on chestnut pest solutions.

Awarded for her contributions, McCullough has received the MSU Distinguished Faculty Award (2016), Hodson Award (2014), and recognition from the Michigan Christmas Tree Association. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to protect forest health and mitigate invasive species threats.